ASSESSING EXERCISE TOLERANCE CHANGES IN PATIENTS AFTER ACUTE CORONARY SYNDROME AT THE STAGE OF RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION

Abstract. Introduction. It is proven that integrated cardiac rehabilitation helps reduce mortality and hospital readmission rates and improves the quality of life of patients with acute coronary syndrome experience. Key aspect of integrated cardiac rehabilitation is aerobic training contributing to higher exercise tolerance. Aim. This research aims at assessing the changes in exercise tolerance in acute coronary syndrome patients at the second stage of medical rehabilitation. Materials and Methods. The research involved 162 patients of the Department of Medical Rehabilitation of Adult Patients with Somatic Diseases, who have experienced acute coronary syndrome. To assess the patients’ exercise tolerance, we used the six-minute walk test under electrocardiography control with the Accordix system (Neurosoft, Russia) upon their admission and immediately before their discharge from the hospital. Along with drug therapy, the personalized medical rehabilitation plans included electrocardiography-controlled aerobic training, laser therapy, psychological intervention, and occupational therapy classes. Rehabilitation efficiency was assessed by six-minute walk test (m) and Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) scale (score). The findings were analyzed statistically using nonparametric criteria. Results and Discussion. There were reduced exercise tolerance and limited daily activities in a significant part of cardiological patients before admission to the hospital. Upon completion of the medical rehabilitation course, the patients’ exercise tolerance increased significantly, resulting in better individual exercise tolerances, longer distances covered within the six-minute walk test, and the larger total amount of daily activities the patients can perform. Conclusions. Electrocardiography-controlled physical training based on the patient’s initial stamina level promotes increasing their exercise tolerance, their tolerance to daily activities, their mobility, independence, and, accordingly, their life quality.